Is Trey Smith's health the difference for UT Vols?

Tennessee football coach Jeremy Pruitt was part of the contingent that signed autographs and mingled with fans in Chattanooga

Dan Fleser, USA TODAY NETWORK - Tennessee

Tennessee’s training camp is less than two months away, and fans still don’t know about the status of their best player.

Offensive lineman Trey Smith was unable to go through spring practice because of a medical condition. New UT coach Jeremy Pruitt expects him to be ready this fall, but there’s enough uncertainty to trouble the fan base.

Tennessee's Trey Smith participates in a drill during the first practice of spring March 20.

Tennessee's Trey Smith participates in a drill during the first practice of spring March 20.

Caitie McMekin/News Sentinel

It could be worse, though. At least Tennessee’s best player isn’t a quarterback. The offense often runs behind Smith. But it doesn’t run through him.

Tennessee's Trey Smith discusses his first career start at tackle after making eight starts at guard.

Blake Toppmeyer/News Sentinel

Galbreath had something else going for him: teammates. He was surrounded by other good players on the offensive line. Bruhin, like Galbreath, was drafted into the NFL. Center Todd Kirk and tackle Eric Still both ended up starting three seasons at Tennessee.

One great offensive lineman still can have an impact, even if he’s helmet and shoulder pads above the rest of the group. His execution in practices and games can be inspirational.

“Harry and I competed a lot,” Bruhin said. “We competed with intimidation blocks. Everybody started counting them. Receivers even had pancake blocks.

“I came close a few times (to topping Galbreath). But I never had as many as he did.”

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This preseason, he’s a popular preseason pick for first-team All-SEC, even though his health is in question. If he returns as robust as ever, he won’t transform UT’s line into a dominant unit. Nonetheless, UT fans don’t want to think about their next offensive line without Smith on it.

There’s so much uncertainty everywhere else in the unit and on the overall depth chart. And the uncertainty is magnified by a new coaching staff and system.

At least you know Smith will fit in just fine if he’s healthy. Never mind the system or whether he’s playing guard or tackle. There should be some comfort in knowing one position is solidified.

Smith also could provide leadership. So what if he’s only a sophomore. As the team’s most proven player, he could lead by example.

Just as Galbreath did in the late 1980s.

John Adams is a senior columnist. He may be reached at 865-342-6284 or john.adams@knoxnews.com. Follow him at: Twitter.com/johnadamskns.